This one-pan garlic butter chicken is perfect if you want maximum taste with minimum effort. No complicated steps, no oven, and no fancy ingredients—just juicy chicken cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ One pan only
- ✅ Beginner-friendly
- ✅ Restaurant-style taste at home
- ✅ Ready in 20 minutes
- ✅ Goes with roti, rice, or bread
Perfect for lunch, dinner, or quick family meals.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 250–300g chicken (boneless or with bone)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 4–5 garlic cloves (chopped or crushed)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp paprika or chili flakes (optional)
- ½ tsp lemon juice (optional)
- Fresh coriander or parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Place a pan on medium heat.
Add oil and butter together (prevents butter from burning).
Step 2: Garlic Aroma
Add chopped garlic.
Cook for 30–40 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the pan.
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and chili powder.
Cook on medium heat for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Golden Finish
Cook until chicken turns golden and fully cooked.
Add chili flakes and lemon juice if using.
Mix well and turn off the flame.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with steamed rice
- Eat with roti or naan
- Pair with bread or garlic toast
- Add a simple salad on the side
Cooking Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the pan
- Adjust spice level to taste
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor
- Add a splash of water if sauce gets dry
Easy Variations
- 🧀 Creamy Version: Add 2 tbsp cream at the end
- 🌶️ Spicy Version: Add green chilies
- 🥦 Healthy Version: Add broccoli or capsicum
- 🍋 Fresh Taste: Extra lemon juice before serving
Nutrition Benefits (Approx.)
- High protein
- Good energy meal
- Low carbs (without bread/rice)
- Satisfying and filling
Final Thoughts
This garlic butter chicken proves that quick & easy homemade recipes can still taste rich and delicious. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you get a meal that feels special without extra work.